Joe Torres named Reds' new pitching coach

CINCINNATI -- Needing to turn around a pitching staff that took steps backwards in 2026, the Reds hired former Guardians assistant pitching coach Joe Torres as their new pitching coach on Wednesday.

The 44-year-old Torres was the Guardians' assistant pitching coach for the past five seasons, including 2022-23 under current Reds manager Terry Francona.

Torres is replacing Derek Johnson, who was informed last month that he would not be retained following a personal leave of absence from June through the rest of the season. Assistant pitching coach Matt Tracy filled in for Johnson while he was away.

Tracy and bullpen coach Oscar Marin -- who both interviewed for the vacancy -- are expected to…